Crystal Coast Calendar of Events

The North Carolina’s Crystal Coast has family friendly events and lots of things to do in the Spring and Summer leading into the Fall and early Winter. Here you can keep up to date with local activities, events and socials for one and all from Swansboro, NC to Emerald Isle, NC to Atlantic Beach, NC to the Coolest Small Town Beaufort, NC. Find a list of festivals, concerts, tours, historic events, museums, attractions at the Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores – all centered around what our coast is know for – the beautiful beaches, history, fishing, food and family fun.

The Crystal Coast of North Carolina is enchanting and rich in coastal culture. Looking for a low key getaway or an action packed adventure during your visit; check out our monthly calendar of events for a list of activities to keep you entertained while you’re here.

2018 On-Going Events

International Film Series 2018 | 3505 Arendell St., Morehead City

We are back at it this year with four new films from four new countries. Join us for a wonderful dinner catered by Floyd’s 1921 and inspired by the featured movie’s country. After dinner, stroll over to Joslyn Hall for popcorn and the movie!

The Escoffier Chefs Dinner Series is an annual event that occurs once a month in January, February, March and April. All four dinners will feature the best French Cuisine. Enjoy a four-course meal prepared by Culinary Students and top local chefs. Get a ticket for an individual dinner, or the whole series, but act fast because they always sell out!

This amazing unique event supports the Carteret Community College Culinary Program. The Culinary Program is vibrantly training tomorrow’s chefs. Carteret Community College is very proud that they send 3-4 students annually to France for a month internship. During this month-long trip the students train under the best French Escoffier Chefs in the world!

Visit food preparation areas, animal holding areas, and labs. Also get an overhead view of the Living Shipwreck and watch Aquarium Aquarists feed the sharks! Ages 5 and up – $20. For details, call (252) 247-4003 or visit www.ncaquariums.com to register.

Visit food preparation areas, animal holding areas, and labs. Also get a look at the Living Shipwreck habitat. Ages 5 and up – $12. For details, call (252) 247-4003 or visit www.ncaquariums.com to register.

Brown Bag Gam: The History of Whale Hunting in North Carolina

January 4, 2018

12 PM – 1 PM

North Carolina Maritime Museum | 315 Front St., Beaufort

Associate Museum Curator Bejamin Wunderly will cover the history of whaling activities that took place in North Carolina. The whale hunting along North Carolina’s shores mostly took place within sight of land for the better part of the 18th and 19th centuries. Small crews would launch into the surf and pursue these giant marine mammals. It was quite a different process than any other fishery taking place on the coast during the period and trough it wasn’t a full-time occupation, when a whale was caught, it could bring in some extra income for local fishermen. Gam is defined as a friendly conversation between whalers or to visit with another ship while at sea. Free Admission. No advance registration. Walk-ins welcome.

Visit labs and holding areas, help with food preparation and feed the animals in this thorough behind-the-scenes tour. Tour includes a look at fresh water habitats as well as salt water habitats and a look at the Living Shipwreck habitat. Ages 8 and up – $20. For details, call (252) 247-4003 or visit www.ncaquariums.com to register.

Succulent Seafood Series

January 8, 15, 22, & 29, 2018

2 PM – 4 PM

Local chefs demonstrate how to prepare fresh, local seafood with a flourish. Session include a taste test! Schedule is based on restaurant participation. Ages 12 and up – $18. For details, call (252) 247-4003 or visit www.ncaquariums.com to register.

Southern Baja and the Sea of Cortez, Whale Watchers Paradise

January 12, 2018

7 PM – 8 PM

NC Maritime Museum

Museum Natural Science Curator Keith Rittmaster will highlight a recent excursion he took to the Sea of Cortez between the Baja peninsula and mainland Mexico. The marine life observed on his adventure put on quite a show! Keith’s presentation will include photographs and video. Free Admission. No advance registration. Walk-ins welcome.

Crystal Coast Foosball Challenge

January 12-13, 2018

Events kicking off at 7 PM on Friday

2018 will mark the 8th year that Bonzini USA will host the Crystal Coast Foosball Challenge at “The Beach Tavern” in Atlantic Beach. Proceeds go to benefit Hope Mission of Carteret County. Primarily a food raising charity event, Foosball players along the East Coast join to compete for $1,000 in cash and prizes. Donations of dry goods will be accepted from participants and spectators alike. Come on out and support Hope Mission of Carteret County. For more information, visit www.bonziniusa.com.

Bend and Brew Yoga at Crystal Coast Brewing Co.

January 13, 2018

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Crystal Coast Brewing Company and Jenn Melton are teaming up once again for Bend and Brew! Bring your yoga mat, water bottle, and a friend! The practice will begin at 10:30 AM, please arrive a few minutes early to sign the guest list and get settled in. $15 includes yoga and your first drink! For more details, call (252) 773-0974 or visit www.crystalcoastbrewingcompany.com

Crystal Coast Bridal Fair

January 13, 2018

Crystal Coast Bridal Fair will showcase over 50 wedding vendors to help you make your choices for your upcoming wedding. Bring your bridesmaids, your parents, and the groom and enjoy the day for vendors to help make your dream wedding a reality. For more information, visit www.crystalcoastbridalfair.com.

Down East Folk Arts Society Concert presents Dennis Warner

January 13, 2018

Performing in over 100 cities each year, Folk/Americana musician and entertainer, Dennis Warner has established a well-deserved reputation for captivating audiences with his smooth vocals, distinguished songs, enthusiastic personality, and stellar playing on both six and twelve string guitars. For more information, visit www.downeastfolkarts.org

Karaoke with DJ Dan at K9s and Coffee

January 16, 2018

7 PM – 10 PM

Join K9s and Coffee in Emerald Isle for a laid back fun evening of karaoke! For more details, call (252) 354-3410 or visit www.k9sandcoffee.com

Meet in the visitor center lobby for a leisurely hike exploring the natural side of Fort Macon. Hike will cover both trail and beach. For more details, call (252) 726-3775 or visit www.ncparks.gov/fort-macon-state-park

DJ Trivia at The Carolina Wine Mixer

January 18, 2018

3 PM – 6 PM

If you’re looking to play the very best restaurant, pub and bar trivia you found it! DJ Trivia is a fun, live, interactive trivia game involving you, your team, other teams and a live DJ host! For more details, call (252) 354-3333 or visit www.carolinawinemixer.com

Coastal Culture and Waterfowl Watching Trip

January 18-19, 2018

NC Maritime Museum | 315 Front St., Beaufort

Observe the migration of wintering waterfowl at Wildlife Refuges and National Seashores in Eastern North Carolina. Learn about the unique history of our coastal communities as well. Museum staff will lead you on a tour through the remote and beautiful regions of Pamlico, Hyde, and Dare Counties. This is an overnight adventure and requires pre-registration. Fee: $80. Hotel reservations and meals not included. Space is limited. This program will sell out! For more information, call the Program Registrar at (252) 504-7758, the NC Maritime Museum at (252) 504-7740 or visit www.ncmaritimemuseumbeaufort.com

7th Annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off

January 19, 2018

Four guest clam chowder cooks will compete at the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center. Participants enjoy a tasting-sized portion of each of the four chowders and then vote for their favorite. In addition to clam chowder, the event will host a cornbread taste-off. Tickets: $35 for members, $40 for non-members. For more information, visit www.ncmaritimemuseumbeaufort.com

Hello Dolly!

January 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, & 28, 2018

It’s the 1890s New York City, the bold and enchanting widow, Dolly Levi, is a socialite-turned-matchmakers. Tickets on sale now! For more information, visit www.carteretcommunitytheatre.com

DJ Jerm at Promise Land Market

January 19, 2018

8 PM – 11 PM

Our favorite DJ will be back in the Promise Land. Jeremy aka DJ Jerm will be here with his intuitive mix of Nu-Disco, Funk, Hip-Hop, Edits & House Music. You have gotta hear his cool, retro sounds with modern beats! For more details, call (252) 222-0422 or visit www.promiselandmarket.com

David Dixon at Salt

January 19, 2018

9 PM – 12 AM

Salt | 325 Mangrove Dr., Emerald Isle

Fresh off his debut album release, Wilmington, NC-based songwriter, David Dixon continues to gain momentum all over the Southeast. Dixon studied guitar performance and songwriting at the acclaimed Berklee College of Music in Boston. His guitar-driven power trio demonstrates an alluring blend of Blues, Jam, Tock, and Soul, truly something for everyone. Dixon’s recent album release was Mastered by Grammy Award-winner, Brian Lucey (the Black Keys, Ray Lamontagne, Beck). Think Gary Clark Jr. meets John Mayer, with some Red Hot Chili Peppers sprinkled on top. In addition to the DDTrio shows, Dixon perform solo shows while “looping” multiple guitar and vocal parts. He also plays violin, bass, piano, and mandolin. Dixon has performed for the US Military in South Korea multiple times, and has also performed in the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, and all over the United States.

Trey Calloway, one of country music’s hottest new singer/songwriters, hails from small town Cornelius, North Carolina. Trey recently recorded and released his debut Nashville album entitled “Carolina Man,” on which a few of his musical heroes, including Brent Mason, Lonnie Wilson and Buddy Hyatt, performed. Trey penned the 12 songs on the album and teamed up with musician and producer Mike Rogers to bring the lyrics and riffs to life. Trey’s show is truly a must-see; he and his four band mates lay their souls on the stage every time they perform.

Winter Festival 2018

January 27, 2018

10 AM – 5 PM

Beat the wintertime blues with a day of indoor games, shopping, and family fun at Mac Daddy’s Family Entertainment Center’s 8th Annual Winter Festival! Admission is free! Winter Festival fun includes face painting, a cake walk, and a variety of games and contests. Dozens of local businesses will be showcasing arts & crafts, jewelry, clothes, beauty products, home decor, and much more. Mac Daddy’s will be giving away awesome prizes and hosting live, family-centered performances throughout the day.

Mac Daddy’s is a family entertainment center located in Cape Carteret. It boasts the area’s largest arcade, 24 lanes of the coolest bowling, a sports bar and full service restaurant with catering facilities and party space.

Introduction to Wooden Boat Building Course

January 27, 2018 | 9 AM – January 28, 2018 | 4:30 PM

NC Maritime Museum | 315 Front St., Beaufort

In this two-day hands-on course, students will explore the art of boat building from start to finish. They begin with the design and lofting of boats, and move on to the setup, steam bending and different methods of creating the back bone of small boats. In addition, they will learn how to make planking systems, both carvel and lap stoke and all the appropriate fastening systems. By the end of the course, student will have the knowledge and skill to choose a design and style of boat to build on their own and the confidence to take on the job. Course fee: $135. Friends of the Museum: $121.50. Minimum age: 16 years old. All courses are limited in size. Advance registration required. For more information, call the Program Registrar at (252) 504-7758.

American Music Festival Series

January 27, 2018

8 PM – 10 PM

The History Museum of Carteret County | 1008 Arendell St., Morehead City

Duo Francais – Among the most captivating French music interpreters performing today, Nicolas Duchamp and Barbara McKenzie transport the listener into a lush world of French elegance and beauty; nuance and sensitivity; leaving a tonal landscape compatible with the palette of Monet.

Visit food preparation areas, animal holding areas, and labs. Also get an overhead view of the Living Shipwreck and watch Aquarium Aquarists feed the sharks! Ages 5 and up – $20. For details, call (252) 247-4003 or visit www.ncaquariums.com to register.

Visit food preparation areas, animal holding areas, and labs. Also get a look at the Living Shipwreck habitat. Ages 5 and up – $12. For details, call (252) 247-4003 or visit www.ncaquariums.com to register.

Visit labs and holding areas, help with food preparation and feed the animals in this thorough behind-the-scenes tour. Tour includes a look at fresh water habitats as well as salt water habitats and a look at the Living Shipwreck habitat. Ages 8 and up – $20. For details, call (252) 247-4003 or visit www.ncaquariums.com to register.

Succulent Seafood Series

February 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2018

2 PM – 4 PM

Local chefs demonstrate how to prepare fresh, local seafood with a flourish. Session include a taste test! Schedule is based on restaurant participation. Ages 12 and up – $18. For details, call (252) 247-4003 or visit www.ncaquariums.com to register.

Jim Quick & Coastline at Salt

February 9, 2018

9 PM – 12 AM

Salt | 325 Mangrove Dr., Emerald Isle

Mark Twain once said, “A Southerner talks music.” If this is true, Coastline speaks in volumes. An eclectic blend of soul, blues, and rock has produced the sound known as Coastline. From hard driving Carolina back beats, to Georgia southern rock, from Cajun inspired grooves, to Texas and Delta blues; Coastline truly define the sound of historical Southern music. With finesse, the pure forms of southern music are transformed into a modern contemporary art form. For reserved seating and VIP call Betsy at (617) 750-9005.

Down East Folk Arts Society Concert – Kerry Grombacher

February 17, 2018

7:30 PM – 9 PM

Carteret Community College | 3505 Arendell St., Morehead City

Kerry Grombacher is a modern-day troubadour whose songs are rooted in the Western landscape. He’s played on stages as varied as the Newport Folk Festival, the Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering, the New Orleans Jazz Fest and the parking lot of the Sands Motel in Grants, NM – where there is a room named for him. His recording are It Sings in the Hi-Line, Sands Motel, and Riding for the Brand. Belinda Gail, Gary Prescott, The Texas Trailhands, Earl Gleason, Duke Davis, Ed Stabler, Lorrie Keating, and Trails & Rails have covered his songs, and his “Close ’em on Up” appears on the Putumayo compilation, Cowboy Playground.

Introduction to Wooden Boat Building Course

February 24, 2018 | 9 AM – February 25, 2018 | 4 PM

NC Maritime Museum | 315 Front St., Beaufort

In this two-day hands-on course, students will explore the art of boat building from start to finish. They begin with the design and lofting of boats, and move on to the setup, steam bending and different methods of creating the back bone of small boats. In addition, they will learn how to make planking systems, both carvel and lap stoke and all the appropriate fastening systems. By the end of the course, student will have the knowledge and skill to choose a design and style of boat to build on their own and the confidence to take on the job. Course fee: $135. Friends of the Museum: $121.50. Minimum age: 16 years old. All courses are limited in size. Advance registration required. For more information, call the Program Registrar at (252) 504-7758.

American Music Festival Series

February 24, 2018

8 PM – 10 PM

First Presbyterian | 1604 Arendell St., Morehead City

Acronym – These gutsy Troubadours seem more like a contemporary music group than a Baroque string band, so don’t expect to hear anything stiff or artificial. Their sound is luxurious, their interpretations are expressive and warm and loaded with rhythmic surprises and unforgettable melodies.